The Chicago Bears' playoff hopes took a surprising and serious hit on Sunday when the Minnesota Vikings improved their record to 9-6 with an upset win against the Houston Texans. That 23-6 outcome means the Bears' afternoon game against the Arizona Cardinals is a must-win if Chicago wants to keep its playoff hopes alive.
NFL playoff picture: Vikings win puts Bears in tough situation
The Minnesota Vikings upset the Houston Texans and makes the Chicago Bears on the outside looking in. The Bears must defeat the Arizona Cardinals Sunday to remain in playoff contention.
They face an Arizona team that ended a nine-game losing streak last week by beating the Detroit Lions, 38-10.
Even if Chicago (8-6) wins against Arizona, they will have to root for the Vikings to lose to the NFC North-leading Green Bay Packers next week. Then, they'll have to win their own season finale against the Lions.
A win by the Baltimore Ravens against the New York Giants Sunday will also boost the Bears' hopes, as they are now on the outside looking in.
The Bears losing five of their last six games put them in a bind following a 7-1 start to the season.
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